For half the planet , it is springtime . That means warmer temperatures and new growth on plants and trees . Trees are amazing and do so much for our environment . The basic parts of a tree are the trunk , the roots , branches , and limbs . Today we are going to talk about limbs . If you like watching squirrels play in trees as much as I do , you may have noticed something . They jump from one limb to another . They are fearless even as they walk out on the weakest-looking limb . They are simply not afraid . And that is our expression for today -- “to go out on a limb .” When you “go out on a limb ” you take a risk . You take a chance . You are brave by doing something that could hurt you . You know , when you climb out onto a tree limb you could fall and get hurt . But here's the thing with this expression . More often than not the risk is an emotional , social , or political one . It is usually not a physical risk – like the ones our squirrel friends take . It means you put yourself out there and open yourself up to criticism or judgement . Here's an example . Let's say I have a friend , Jake . Well , Jake just lost his job , and he is really upset about it . However , he has a plan . He plans to go to his ex-boss's office unannounced and explain all the reasons why she should give him another chance . I think … no , I know this is a terrible idea . But Jake does not want my suggestions . In fact , he gets very upset when I warn him . So , I say to Jake , “Look , this might upset you , but I'm going to go out on a limb . I think it's a really bad idea to visit your ex-boss at her office . Why don't you just call instead ? A call is better . And a call won't get you arrested for trespassing .” Here is another way to use it . Let's say I put in a good word for Jake with my boss . This means I speak highly of him . As a result , he ends up getting a job interview . I really went out on a limb for Jake . I know he's not that great of a worker . But he promised to do better . Still , my relationship with my boss is on the line . This means it is at risk of being damaged . I went out on a limb for Jake . I really hope I don't regret it . This is a risky thing to say . There are a lot of other English-teaching shows out there . But I really wanted to finish the show with another example for you .